12 a.m., October 1. Like a flick of the switch, it arrived. We’ll still have some days that feel like summer – but by and large, autumn is here to stay. We find ourselves back on that magical roller coaster that is the holiday gauntlet of Oct. 1 to Jan. 1. This writer loves this time of year – stres...

Candles are not in short supply come the holiday season. During Chanukah, candles are an integral component of celebrating the miracle of oil that burned in the Temple for eight days. Celebrants of Kwanzaa utilize candles to represent the seven principles of the holiday. Christians light candles dur...

Wreaths are popular decorative items that can be customized for any season or occasion. Wreaths are particularly popular during the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas, especially when adorned with evergreen boughs and berries. Learning how to make a wreath can be a handy skill. Those new to wr...

Going through a stack of photos from the late 1960s, I ran across some hilarious pictures of one of Mom and Dad’s many social gatherings – a tacky party. Usually scheduled for some time in October, it was our church’s answer to the more common Halloween costume party. It was the only time I remember...

Most people don’t spend much time thinking about firewood. If it’s split and dry, it’s good to go, right? Well, maybe not. In recognition of Firewood Month, Michigan’s Invasive Species Program is sharing some firewood facts to help you make safe firewood choices to protect your state’s trees and for...

Many occasions call for cake as a centerpiece dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or holiday celebration, having a go-to cake recipe on hand can ensure that guests get a slice of dessert that truly treats their palates. The good news is that homemade cake is easier than you would think to...

Three generations gather to celebrate history and prepare firewood. We think of Grandpa as we buzz wood yet again. Years have gone by but the old 1938 Allis Chalmers WC still hums the buzz saw from Grandpa’s gravel pit. More than machines and more than winter fuel, we celebrate memories and shared l...

Perennial plants return to our gardens each growing season, but after several years, they may outgrow their original space. Dividing perennials in autumn or early spring can help keep these plants healthy while allowing you to build your ornamental beds over time. Overcrowding may cause a lack of fl...

Robert Kroeger’s latest book, “ Stone Barns of America ,” is more than just a collection of photographs and facts. It is a testament to the artistry, history and determination etched in the walls of stone barns scattered across the country. Released in 2025, this book, like its predecessors, isn’t j...